The University of Georgia (UGA) offers a wide array of education degrees designed to prepare future educators, administrators, and specialists for successful careers in the field. From undergraduate to doctoral levels, UGA’s Mary Frances Early College of Education provides comprehensive programs that cater to diverse interests and career goals. This guide will walk you through the various education degrees available at UGA, helping you make an informed decision about your educational journey.
Undergraduate Education Degrees
UGA’s undergraduate education programs lay a strong foundation for aspiring educators, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
Bachelor of Science in Education (BSEd) Programs
The BSEd degree at UGA is available in several specializations:
- Elementary Education: Prepares students to teach in grades K-5, focusing on core subjects and child development.
- Middle Grades Education: Designed for those interested in teaching grades 4-8, with content area specializations.
- Secondary Education: Offers subject-specific tracks including English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies Education.
- Special Education: Provides options for General Curriculum and Adapted Curriculum and Autism specializations.
UGA also offers unique BSEd programs in areas such as:
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Exercise and Sport Science
- Workforce Education
Dual Degree Programs
UGA’s dual degree options allow students to combine their passion for a specific subject with education. Some popular combinations include:
- AB/BSEd in English/English Education
- BS/BSEd in Biology/Science Education
- AB/BSEd in History/Social Studies Education
These programs typically allow students to earn both degrees in the same timeframe as a single degree, providing a competitive edge in the job market.
Double Dawgs Accelerated Degree Options
The Double Dawgs program enables students to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in five years or less. This accelerated pathway is ideal for those looking to fast-track their education career. Some examples include:
- BSEd in Elementary Education / MEd in Elementary Education
- BSEd in Special Education / MEd in Special Education
- BSEd in TESOL and World Language Education / MEd in TESOL and World Language Education
Graduate Education Degrees
UGA’s graduate programs in education offer advanced study and specialization opportunities for educators and education professionals.
Master’s Programs
- Master of Education (M.Ed.) Options:
- Learning, Design & Technology
- Mathematics Education
- Middle Grades Education
- Reading Education
- Special Education
- TESOL and World Language Education
- Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) Programs:
- Elementary Education
- Secondary Education subjects
- Special Education
- Specialized Master’s Degrees:
- Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT)
- Master of Agricultural and Environmental Education (MAEE)
- Master of Art Education (MAEd)
- Master of Music Education (MMEd)
Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) Programs
Ed.S. programs at UGA are designed for educators seeking advanced training beyond a master’s degree. Options include:
- Educational Administration and Policy
- Educational Psychology
- Learning, Design, and Technology
Doctoral Programs in Education
UGA offers both Ph.D. and Ed.D. programs in various education specializations, preparing students for leadership roles in academia, research, and educational administration.
Online and Flexible Education Degrees
UGA recognizes the need for flexible learning options and offers several online education degrees.
Fully Online Programs
- BSEd in Special Education (General Curriculum)
- M.Ed. in Learning, Design & Technology
- Ed.S. in Educational Psychology (Gifted and Creative Education)
Hybrid Learning Options
Some programs combine online coursework with face-to-face sessions, providing flexibility while maintaining personal interaction.
Specialized Education Programs
Middle Grades Education Focus
UGA’s Middle Grades Education programs emphasize equity-driven teaching for grades 4-8, with coursework in specific content areas.
Special Education Pathways
UGA offers various special education programs, including options for Adapted Curriculum and Autism, and Birth Through Kindergarten/Preschool Special Education.
TESOL and World Language Education
These programs prepare educators to teach English to speakers of other languages and various world languages.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Undergraduate Admission Criteria
Admission to UGA’s undergraduate education programs typically requires:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Competitive GPA (minimum 2.80 overall)
- SAT or ACT scores
- Completion of specific core courses
- Federal and Georgia Constitution requirements
Graduate Program Requirements
Graduate program admission often includes:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum GPA (varies by program)
- GRE scores (for some programs)
- Professional experience (for certain programs)
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
Application Process
- Apply to the University of Georgia: Students must be accepted to UGA before entering a College of Education program.
- Apply to the specific education program: Each program has its own application timeline and requirements.
Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities
UGA offers various financial aid options for education students:
- UGA-specific scholarships for education students
- Federal and state aid options (complete FAFSA)
- Graduate assistantships and fellowships
Career Outcomes and Opportunities
Graduates of UGA’s education programs find careers as:
- K-12 Teachers
- School Administrators
- Instructional Designers
- Educational Researchers
- Higher Education Professionals
UGA’s education alumni have gone on to become award-winning teachers, influential educational leaders, and innovators in the field of education.
UGA’s Education Programs: A Comparative Analysis
Rankings and Accreditations
UGA’s College of Education is consistently ranked among the top public universities for education programs. The college is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
Unique Features of UGA’s Education Degrees
- Strong emphasis on practical experience and field placements
- Innovative programs like Double Dawgs and dual degrees
- Internationally recognized faculty
- Robust online and flexible learning options
Recent Developments and Future Outlook
As of March 2025, the University of Georgia celebrated the fifth anniversary of naming the College of Education in honor of Mary Frances Early, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s commitment to diversity and excellence in education.
UGA continues to innovate in its education programs, with recent initiatives focusing on:
- Integrating technology in education
- Promoting inclusive and equitable teaching practices
- Expanding global education opportunities
- Enhancing research opportunities for students at all levels
Conclusion
The University of Georgia offers a comprehensive range of education degrees, from undergraduate to doctoral levels, catering to diverse interests and career goals in the field of education. With its renowned faculty, innovative programs, and flexible learning options, UGA provides a solid foundation for aspiring educators and education professionals.
Whether you’re just starting your journey in education or looking to advance your career, UGA’s education programs offer the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to succeed in this vital field. The university’s commitment to academic excellence, combined with its focus on practical experience and cutting-edge research, makes it an excellent choice for those passionate about shaping the future through education.
For more information on specific programs, admission requirements, and application deadlines, visit the Mary Frances Early College of Education website or contact the admissions office directly. Your journey to becoming an influential educator starts here at the University of Georgia.
